Maximal Oxygen Consumption Test (VO2max)

The VO2max test is the criterion measure of aerobic power in athletes. Described here is the method to measure VO2max directly by indirect calorimetry.

equipment required: Oxygen and carbon dioxide analyzers,
ergometer on which workload may be modified, heart rate monitor (optional) and a stopwatch. Expired
air may be collected and volume measured via Douglas bags
or a Tissot tank, or measured by a pnuemotach or turbine ventilometer.

procedure: Exercise is performed on
an appropriate ergometer (treadmill, cycle, swim bench etc.). The
exercise workloads are selected to gradually progress in increments
from moderate to maximal intensity. Oxygen uptake is calculated
from measures of ventilation and the oxygen and carbon dioxide in the expired air, and the maximal level is determined
at or near test completion (see VO2max videos)

scoring: Results are presented as either l/min (liters
per minute) or ml/kg/min (mls of oxygen per kilogram of body
weight per minute). The athlete is considered to have reached
their VO2max if several of the following occurred:
a plateau or 'peaking over' in oxygen uptake, maximal heart
rate was reached, attainment of a respiratory exchange ratio
of 1.15 or greater, and volitional exhaustion. See also the Adult VO2max norm
values.

variations / alternatives: The Vmax test is essentially a VO2max test without the gas analysis, with some similar results. Many other aerobic fitness tests estimate VO2max score from their results. See the other tests of Aerobic Endurance.

target population: Any sport in which aerobic endurance
is a component, such as distance runners, cross country skiers, rowers, triathlon, cycling.

advantages: This test directly measures body oxygen
consumption, which many other aerobic fitness tests try to estimate. You can also
get direct measurement of maximum heart rate by recording heart rate
during the test.

disadvantages: this test is relatively time consuming and has high costs involved for each test compared to many other aerobic fitness tests.

comments: There is often variability between
the performance of different analysis systems. Stringent calibration
is necessary for both the expired gas and ventilation measurement
systems.

caution: This test is a maximal test, which requires a reasonable level of fitness. It is not recommended for recreational athletes or people with health problems, injuries or low fitness levels.